Unbrandme

Hosted by BRND WGN

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Apr 2026

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About the show

Welcome to Unbrandme, the BRND WGN podcast hosted by Peter-Jan Grech where we unpack the stories of brand owners, entrepreneurs and disruptors to understand how their life stories and lessons have impacted the brands and businesses they build and lead. Over the last 18 years at BRND WGN, working with so many great clients has fuelled my belief that better people make better brands and better brands make a better world.

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29 recent

April 8, 2026Episode 2957 min

From Depth to Direction: Reinventing Identity Beyond the Ocean - Neil Agius - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 029

In this episode of The UnbrandMe Podcast, host Peter-Jan Grech sits down with Neil Agius, not just the Olympian and world record holder, but a man in transition.While many know Neil for his extraordinary feats in the ocean, this conversation goes deeper, exploring the evolution of identity beyond performance. From athlete to entrepreneur, from partner to father, Neil opens up about the shifts that have redefined his purpose.We touch on his journey through ultra-endurance swimming as the foundation and more importantly, as the catalyst. The real story lies in what those experiences unlocked: a deeper understanding of self, discipline, and the responsibility that comes with influence.Neil shares how The Ocean Mindset was born, not from success alone, but from failure, reflection, and a desire to translate extreme lessons into everyday life. He speaks candidly about leadership, efficiency, and the importance of building a sustainable way of living in a world that glorifies burnout.Now stepping into fatherhood, Neil reflects on how this new chapter is reshaping his perspective on risk, presence, and legacy.This episode is not about swimming, it’s about becoming. A conversation on growth, identity, and the continuous pursuit of who we are meant to be.

March 12, 2026Episode 2848 min

Glitch Effect: Building Malta’s Global Electronic Music Festival - Kevin Ellul - The Unbrandme EP028

In this episode of the Unbrandme Podcast, host Peter-Jan Grech sits down with Kevin Ellul, co-founder of the internationally acclaimed Glitch Festival. What began in 2015 as a bold vision to elevate Malta’s electronic music scene has evolved into one of the island’s most globally recognised festivals, drawing thousands of music lovers from over 80 countries.Kevin shares the story behind the Glitch brand, from its collaborative beginnings with former competitors to its reputation for meticulous curation and unforgettable festival experiences. We dive into how the team built a brand rooted in quality, focusing on artist lineups, production, and the powerful connection between music and Malta’s unique setting.The conversation also explores the realities behind running global music events. Kevin opens up about the early controversies that forced venue changes, the unpredictability of outdoor festivals, and the immense challenge of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic just as the founders committed full-time to the business.Today, Glitch has expanded beyond Malta, bringing its signature events to cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, and Melbourne, strengthening the brand internationally while continuing to attract visitors back to Malta for the flagship festival.This episode is a story of creativity, resilience, and relentless ambition, showing how a small island festival can grow into a global movement while staying true to its roots.

February 11, 2026Episode 2749 min

From Physio to Founder: How Matthew Camilleri Built Rise Physio+ | EP027

What does it take to turn a passion for health into a thriving business? In this episode of The Unbrandme Podcast, host Peter Grech sits down with Matthew Camilleri, the founder of Rise Physio+.We strip away the corporate facade to look at the real journey of entrepreneurship in the healthcare sector. Matthew shares his transition from practitioner to business owner, the challenges of scaling a service-based brand, and the philosophy behind Rise Physio+.In this episode:The origin story of Rise Physio+.Balancing patient care with business growth.The reality of building a brand in the health industry.Leadership lessons and future visions.

August 11, 2025Episode 2648 min

From Glass Ceilings to Global Stages: Lilly Pavlou - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 026

In Episode 26 of The UnbrandMe Podcast, host Peter-Jan Grech sits down with Lilly Pavlou, Executive Director of Qube Events, for a conversation that goes far beyond event planning. From her early days in Pretoria, South Africa, to running one of the most innovative events companies in the world, Lilly shares her remarkable journey of resilience, purpose, and leadership.She opens up about “the ceiling hitting her,” leaving a career she loved, and how that moment sparked the creation of Qube Events almost 10 years ago. Lilly reflects on the values that guide her, content and contact, and why building authentic, connected communities is the heartbeat of her work.We explore the highs and challenges of the global events space, the transition to digital during the pandemic, and her recent venture into M&A advisory with Hatton, helping companies navigate growth and legacy. Packed with practical wisdom, Lilly’s story is about courage, adaptability, and leading with heart.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply someone who believes in the power of human connection, this episode is one to remember.

June 23, 2025Episode 251 hr 0 min

Pierre Lindh: Building a Billion-Euro Vision (Without the Ego) - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 025

In this episode of UnbrandMe, Pete sits down with Pierre Lindh: co-founder of NEXT.io, endurance athlete, and one of the most influential voices in the iGaming world.Pierre’s story begins at 17, when he found himself running one of Scandinavia’s largest underground poker clubs until a police raid landed him on the front page of three national newspapers. What could have ended his career before it began instead sparked a journey that led him to become a respected entrepreneur, community builder, and advocate for a more human-centred industry.What struck me most in our conversation wasn’t just his story, it was his presence. Calm, deeply self-aware, and remarkably generous, Pierre is someone who leads with clarity and puts people first. Whether we were talking about building a billion-euro brand or rebuilding a company that lost 100% of its revenue during COVID, his answers were grounded, intentional, and always people-focused.We explore the roots of his leadership philosophy, his passion for endurance sports, and the routines and rituals he uses to sustain high performance without burning out. We also talk about Malta, the future of conferences, and why he believes integrity, not ego, is the foundation for success.If you're a founder, a team leader, or someone curious about the quieter truths behind success, this episode is worth your time.

June 2, 2025Episode 241 hr 10 min

Rewriting the Script: From Journalism to Entrepreneurship -Jesmond Bonello - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 024

In this episode of The Unbrandme Podcast, Peter Grech sits down with Jesmond Bonello, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Content House — Malta’s leading digital media publisher. Jesmond’s journey from his early days in radio and journalism to building one of the country’s most resilient media businesses alongside his partner and wife, Isabelle, is both inspiring and instructive.This open conversation traces a 30+ year evolution of media in Malta, from print to digital, and unpacks what it takes to lead through crisis and opportunity. Jesmond shares insights on navigating ad-funded journalism, competing with the tech giants, and what it takes to build (and keep) a strong team.For anyone passionate about the media landscape, entrepreneurship, and the power of reinvention, this episode offers a front-row seat to Jesmond’s remarkable story.

April 28, 2025Episode 2349 min

Branding Between Worlds: From FMCG Roots to iGaming Mastery - Marija Hammon - EP 023

In this episode of The UnbrandMe Podcast, host Peter Grech sits down with Marija Hammon—an accomplished marketing strategist whose journey began in FMCG before carving out a standout 13-year career in the iGaming industry.Marija shares how her foundational years in consumer goods shaped her approach to branding, and how she’s since adapted and thrived in the fast-paced, regulation-heavy world of iGaming. From team leadership to building brands that resonate, Marija opens up about what it takes to lead with clarity and creativity across industries.We explore the nuances of personal branding—why it matters more than ever, and how it has guided Marija’s transition from corporate marketing leader to independent Brand & Marketing Consultant. Her story is one of evolution, empowerment, and fearless career reinvention.Whether you’re leading a team, managing a brand, or redefining your own path—this one’s not to be missed.

March 28, 2025Episode 2247 min

From Family Business to Global Stages - Michael Virardi - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 022

In this powerful episode of the UnbrandMe Podcast, Peter Grech sits down with Michael Virardi—renowned keynote speaker, trainer, and author—who made the bold decision to step away from his family’s thriving business in Cyprus to pursue his true calling: inspiring leaders on a global stage.Far from a story of escape, Michael’s time in the family business shaped his deepest insights into leadership, human connection, and emotional intelligence. It’s where he learned to read people, lead with empathy, and build trust—skills that now form the bedrock of his work with executives and teams across the world.We explore the courage it takes to reinvent your path, the art of connecting with any audience, and the responsibility of leading with purpose in an unpredictable world. Michael’s work continues to re-energise leaders, helping them rediscover their voice, their mission, and their drive.This episode is a testament to the power of self-awareness, bold vision, and the kind of leadership that leaves a lasting mark.

March 11, 2025Episode 2153 min

From Fired to Fearless: Claire Abela’s Journey of Resilience, Tribe & Triumph - EP18

In this candid episode of UnbrandMe, host Peter Grech sits down with Claire Abela, the fearless founder of LUCY—Malta’s premier makeup experience. Claire opens up about the defining moment when her father fired her at 19, forcing her to rebuild herself the hard way. She shares how that setback ignited a journey of grit and determination, ultimately transforming adversity into success.Claire also reveals the secret behind LUCY’s vibrant culture: building a tribe. Her passion for her team and her unique leadership approach have been instrumental in elevating the brand to new heights. Moreover, she discusses how she copes with life’s tough moments—giving herself a set time to grieve before bouncing back stronger than ever.This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, raw leadership, and the relentless pursuit of passion. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply seeking inspiration, Claire’s story will leave you motivated to turn challenges into triumphs.

February 17, 2025Episode 2056 min

A Life of Leadership: Helga Ellul on Brands, Business Growth, Succession & Making an Impact - The Unbrandme Podcast EP20

In Episode 20 of The UnbrandMe Podcast, we sit down with Helga Ellul, former CEO of Playmobil Malta and one of Malta’s most respected business leaders.Helga shares her incredible journey—from arriving in Malta in the 1970s to playing a key role in establishing Playmobil as a global brand. She opens up about the challenges of leading in a new culture, mentoring teams, and the lessons she’s learned about business growth, succession, and leadership.Her impact on Malta’s economy, business landscape, and future leaders is undeniable. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with real insights from a leader who helped shape Malta’s business world.